A dermal filler works by raising or puffing up particular areas of the face. It is most commonly used in areas that succumb to sagging skin, which creates a hollowed look. The specific manner as to how the procedure works depends on the type of fillers being used. Existing options include:

• Hyaluronic acid – The most commonly used type of dermal filler, a hyaluronic acid filler works by drawing fluid to the specified part of the face that needs a lift. This substance is used in popular filler brands such as Juvederm, Captique, and Restylane; the effects of these fillers typically last around 9 months to 1 year.
• Fat graft – A fat graft, also known as an autologous fat, refers to fat cells that are taken from another part of the patient’s own body then injected into the recipient site. Since the injected filler is made of actual human fat, the effects of this type of treatment can last for years.
• Polymer – Filler brands like Sculptra uses a man-made and biodegradable polymer substance. This is another long-lasting option, with effects lasting up to two years.
• Calcium hydroxylapatite – This is the main substance used in another popular filler brand Radiesse, which can keep wrinkles and skin aging at bay for up to 12 months.
• Bovine collagen – Fillers like Zyderm and Zyplast use bovine collagen. However, due to the nature of this substance, the patient has to undergo an allergy test at least 4 weeks prior to undergoing the treatment to ensure that he or she will not have any adverse reactions to the injectable filler.
• Microscopic plastic beads – Because bovine collagen treatment does not offer permanent results, it is often mixed with microscopic beads that are made of polymethyl methacrylate or PMMA that stay under the skin for good even when the collagen melts away; they therefore effectively extend the effects of the treatment to at least 5 years.

A filler treatment can be carried out by a dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon. Regardless of which material is used as the filling agent, a greater part of the process is generally the same. The patient first receives a local anesthesia to numb the facial area. Once the anesthesia has settled in, the surgeon or dermatologist injects the filler into the predetermined area, just under the skin. For fat graft, however, the fat that will be used as the filling agent is first harvested from another part of the body.

Each procedure will take approximately 15 minutes. However, depending on the severity of the condition and the size of the treatment area, succeeding sessions may be necessary. If so, each session is spaced at least two weeks apar